Parties Agree to Address Voting Paper Shortage Investigation on June 18

The ruling and opposition parties have agreed to address the investigation plan regarding the shortage of voting papers during the June 3 local elections at the National Assembly on June 18. The opposition People Power Party will chair the committee, which will consist of an equal number of members from both parties.

Chun Jun-ho of the Democratic Party and Kim Seung-soo of the People Power Party announced the agreement after a meeting at the National Assembly on June 16.

The investigation will focus on the National Election Commission and local election commissions. According to the agreement, the special committee will be chaired by the opposition party, with nine members from the ruling party and nine from the opposition, including two members from non-negotiating parties.

Kim stated, "The investigation period is set for 45 days to ensure a swift inquiry, with the possibility of extension if further investigation is needed," adding that the composition of non-negotiating party members will be determined by the National Assembly Speaker.

Regarding the formation of the National Assembly, the two parties remain at an impasse. Chun emphasized, "Our party insists on holding the chairmanship of the Legislation and Judiciary Committee, and we maintain that we should take responsibility for the Economic Committee as well."

In contrast, Kim strongly argued that, considering the precedent where the majority party held the Speaker position, the opposition should take charge of the Legislation and Judiciary Committee to normalize the Assembly. He also stressed that the opposition should lead the Economic Committee for checks and balances.

Chun added, "We still have time tomorrow, so we will continue discussions with the People Power Party leadership and do our best to reach an agreement on the committee formation by the June 18 session."